What pivot points are
Pivot points are price levels used in technical analysis to identify potential support and resistance areas for the current trading period, calculated from the previous period’s high, low, and closing prices.
The standard formula
This calculator uses the classic floor trader method: Pivot (P) = (High + Low + Close) ÷ 3. From there: R1 = 2P − Low, S1 = 2P − High, R2 = P + (High − Low), S2 = P − (High − Low), R3 = High + 2(P − Low), and S3 = Low − 2(High − P).
- Resistance levels (R1-R3) are potential price ceilings above the pivot.
- Support levels (S1-S3) are potential price floors below the pivot.
This tool is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not financial or trading advice. Markets can move through any calculated level, and past price behavior does not guarantee future results.
Last reviewed August 2026